Abstract: Disclosed is a non-lethal bio-repellent composition comprising a carrier, a bio-repellent amount of capsicum oleoresin, and an amount of a saponin sufficient to enhance the effectiveness of the capsicum oleoresin, whose bio-repellent effectiveness is greater than that of either capsicum oleoresin or saponin in absence of the other. Water, fatty acid glycerides, and various polymer emulsions can be used as carriers. The compositions are effective in preventing or minimizing the occupation and soiling of various surfaces by unwanted vertebrate animals such a birds and rodents and invertebrate animals such as insects, molluscs, and crustaceans.